At nine in the morning his prison door was unlocked, and his Gaoler entering, commanded him to follow him.

He obeyed with trembling.

He was conducted into a spacious Hall, hung with black cloth.

At the Table sat three grave, stern-looking Men, also habited in black: One was the Grand Inquisitor, whom the importance of this cause had induced to examine into it himself.

At a smaller table at a little distance sat the Secretary, provided with all necessary implements for writing.